From Verzi to Monte Carmo

We start our journey from Verzi, a hamlet of Loano and drive up to the Parcheggio della Castagna, where our walk begins. After 40 minutes we will arrive at the Pian delle Bosse Refuge, in the municipality of Pietra Ligure. From the refuge, following the Sentiero delle Terre Alte, there is a choice of two routes, one on the ridge reserved for experienced hikers that will get you to the cross in 2 hours or the second, softer route through a beech forest that will get you to the summit in 2 1/2 hours. In the forest you can also find cherry, Bianoc fir, birch, lodgepole pine, ash, maritime pine, holm oak, beech, chestnut, and many other plants.

For the return, you can choose between the same path as the ascent or complete the loop tour.

Arriving at the Croce del Monte Carmo you have a splendid 360-degree view and it is easy to spot deer, roe deer, chamois, wild boar, and foxes.

Hiking guides say that “Monte Carmo is the first alpine peak to have a certain personality: its massive bulk dominates from considerable height the Finale area and the coastal towns of Pietra Ligure, Loano and Borghetto Santo Spirito,” with a fair view of the Isola Gallinara as well.